OpenAI sued for allegedly sharing user data with Google and Meta

A class-action lawsuit was filed in a California federal court on Wednesday, accusing OpenAI of allegedly sharing user data from ChatGPT with Google and Meta without proper consent. The complaint claims that personal details, queries, and email addresses were transmitted through tracking tools embedded on ChatGPT.com, including Meta Pixel and Google Analytics. The lawsuit argues that users expect privacy when discussing sensitive topics like medical, legal, or financial matters in AI chatbots. It cites a Cyberhaven report estimating that about 1% of employee data pasted into ChatGPT is confidential, raising concerns about individual user privacy as well. The case centers on tracking technology used for analytics and ad targeting, which the complaint alleges enabled Google and Meta to collect user data from ChatGPT interactions. If proven, this could mean queries on the platform were used for targeted advertising. The lawsuit covers U.S. residents who used ChatGPT.com and alleges violations of the California Invasion of Privacy Act and the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (CIPA). It seeks damages and an end to the alleged data-sharing practice. OpenAI has not yet responded to the filing. A similar complaint was previously filed against Perplexity AI but was later voluntarily dismissed. The case remains pending, with no trial scheduled.